Spain
Vigo
Vigo is a lively port city nestled in Galicia’s northwest corner of Spain. While it’s known for its industrial hustle, the city’s charm lies in its historic old town and rich maritime heritage. With a population of around 295,000 in 2024, Vigo offers a fascinating mix of modern industry and traditional coastal life. Don't miss exploring the nearby Cíes Islands, part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park, for a breath of fresh sea air.
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Things to do
## Things to do in Vigo Wondering what to do in Vigo? Start in the atmospheric Casco Vello, where stone lanes, lively squares, seafood restaurants and traditional taverns lead towards the harbour. The historic quarter is also the setting for the Reconquista, Vigo’s most famous festival, when street theatre and market stalls recreate the city’s 1809 uprising against Napoleon’s forces. For another perspective on the city, walk up Monte O Castro, an archaeological and hilltop park with views across the estuary, or visit the Museo do Mar de Galicia to explore Vigo’s close relationship with the Atlantic. The city is famous for its maritime setting, excellent Galician cuisine and access to the Rías Baixas: make time to try local seafood and enjoy the waterfront atmosphere. For a relaxed city-centre visit, combine Casco Vello and O Castro with cultural stops such as Teatro García Barbón, Casa de las Artes and the Auditorio Municipal. Football supporters can see Celta Vigo’s home ground at Balaídos, while beach lovers can head to Bouzas, Santa Baia or other coastal beaches around the urban shoreline. A particularly memorable day trip is the Cíes Islands, reached by boat from Vigo’s harbour, for white-sand beaches, coastal walks and the protected landscapes of the Atlantic Islands National Park. Vigo also makes a rewarding base for weekend activities: spend one day exploring the old town, viewpoints, museums and food scene, then use the next for the beaches, Cíes Islands or a walk along the coast. Hikers and pilgrims can also join the Camino Portugués da Costa for a longer journey towards Santiago de Compostela.
Things to do
## Things to do in Vigo Wondering what to do in Vigo? Start in the atmospheric Casco Vello, where stone lanes, lively squares, seafood restaurants and traditional taverns lead towards the harbour. The historic quarter is also the setting for the Reconquista, Vigo’s most famous festival, when street theatre and market stalls recreate the city’s 1809 uprising against Napoleon’s forces. For another perspective on the city, walk up Monte O Castro, an archaeological and hilltop park with views across the estuary, or visit the Museo do Mar de Galicia to explore Vigo’s close relationship with the Atlantic. The city is famous for its maritime setting, excellent Galician cuisine and access to the Rías Baixas: make time to try local seafood and enjoy the waterfront atmosphere. For a relaxed city-centre visit, combine Casco Vello and O Castro with cultural stops such as Teatro García Barbón, Casa de las Artes and the Auditorio Municipal. Football supporters can see Celta Vigo’s home ground at Balaídos, while beach lovers can head to Bouzas, Santa Baia or other coastal beaches around the urban shoreline. A particularly memorable day trip is the Cíes Islands, reached by boat from Vigo’s harbour, for white-sand beaches, coastal walks and the protected landscapes of the Atlantic Islands National Park. Vigo also makes a rewarding base for weekend activities: spend one day exploring the old town, viewpoints, museums and food scene, then use the next for the beaches, Cíes Islands or a walk along the coast. Hikers and pilgrims can also join the Camino Portugués da Costa for a longer journey towards Santiago de Compostela.
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Santiago de Compostela
Spain
Nestled in northwest Spain, Santiago de Compostela serves as the vibrant capital of Galicia. Famous for its legendary connection to Saint James, one of Christ’s twelve apostles, the city is believed to house his burial site, making it a magnet for pilgrims. The historic route known as El Camino brings thousands here each year, culminating in the stunning Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a welcoming population just shy of 100,000, the city’s charming old town invites exploration, offering a blend of spiritual history and lively local culture.
Porto
Portugal
Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city and a captivating hub of culture and commerce, stands proudly overlooking the Douro River’s estuary. While its population within the city proper is modest—around 238,000 residents as of 2024—the sprawling metropolitan area pulses with life, home to approximately 1.8 million people across cities like Vila Nova de Gaia, Vila do Conde, Póvoa de Varzim, and Espinho. Perched atop elevated ground, Porto’s historic heart was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, celebrating its centuries-old legacy that dates back to at least the 4th century BC. This ancient city, officially known as the “Ancient, Very Noble, Ever Loyal and Undefeated City of Porto,” enchants visitors with its blend of tradition and modern vibrancy, all framed by stunning river views and coastal allure.
A Coruña
Spain
A Coruña, known locally as La Coruña, is a bustling port city in Galicia, in the northwest of Spain. Its rich history as a fortified harbor battered by various nations is still visible today. One of the city's most iconic sights is the Roman Tower of Hercules, a lighthouse that has been in operation since possibly the 2nd century AD. Wander through the charming Old City, where cobbled streets and lively squares bring history to life, lined with noble mansions and historic residences. If you're visiting in July, don’t miss the Medieval Fair that takes over the streets, offering a glimpse into the city’s medieval past. A Coruña also boasts several museums, like the San Antón Archaeological Museum housed in a historic castle, the Fine Arts Museum, and a network of scientific museums. With a population of around 249,000 in 2024, it’s a vibrant mix of history, culture, and maritime charm.